Easy Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe

Looking for a simple, yet delicious meal that will satisfy the whole family? Look no further! This easy Chicken Tetrazzini recipe is the perfect blend of tender chicken, savory mushrooms, and rich, creamy sauce, all tossed together with spaghetti or any pasta of your choice. It's a comforting dish that's ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Follow this step-by-step guide to whip up a delightful homemade Chicken Tetrazzini that everyone will love! Read on for all the details, tips, and tricks to make this dish a success.

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What is Chicken Tetrazzini?

Chicken Tetrazzini is a classic American pasta dish typically made with chicken (or turkey), mushrooms, a creamy sauce, and pasta, often baked with a cheesy topping. Named after the famous Italian opera singer Luisa Tetrazzini, this dish has become a favorite comfort food for many. It's a one-pan wonder that combines protein, carbs, and veggies, making it a complete and satisfying meal. Whether you're a novice cook or an experienced chef, this recipe is approachable and sure to impress.

Ingredients List for Chicken Tetrazzini

Before you get started, gather the following ingredients. This list includes everything you need to create the perfect Chicken Tetrazzini dish:

• 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or cubed, leftover chicken works perfectly)
• 12 ounces of spaghetti (or any pasta you prefer)
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms (button or cremini mushrooms work well)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream (or substitute with half-and-half for a lighter option)
• 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for topping)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup white wine (optional, adds depth of flavor)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional, enhances the creamy flavor)
• ¼ cup breadcrumbs (for a crispy topping)
• Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Ingredient List for Variations of Chicken Tetrazzini

Feel free to get creative with your Chicken Tetrazzini by trying some of these popular variations:

• Substitute turkey for chicken if you have leftover holiday turkey.
• Use rotisserie chicken for a quick and easy option.
• Add vegetables like peas, spinach, or bell peppers for added nutrition and color.
• Switch up the cheese by using cheddar, Gruyère, or a mix of Italian cheeses for a different flavor profile.
• Swap spaghetti for egg noodles or even gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary preferences.
• Make it vegetarian by omitting the chicken and adding more mushrooms or other hearty vegetables like zucchini or broccoli.

Substitutions and Variations

This recipe is highly adaptable, and you can easily modify it to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Here are some common substitutions and variations:

1. Gluten-Free Version: Substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta, and use gluten-free breadcrumbs for the topping. Make sure your chicken broth is also gluten-free.
2. Dairy-Free Option: Use a non-dairy milk alternative like almond milk or coconut milk instead of heavy cream, and opt for a dairy-free cheese substitute. Skip the cheese topping or use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
3. Low-Carb Option: Replace the spaghetti with zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles to make a low-carb version.
4. Vegetarian Tetrazzini: Skip the chicken and use more mushrooms or other vegetables like cauliflower or squash to create a hearty vegetarian meal.
5. Vegan Tetrazzini: For a vegan version, replace the chicken with plant-based protein like tofu or chickpeas, use a dairy-free cream, and substitute the butter with olive oil or a vegan butter alternative.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let's dive into the step-by-step process of making Chicken Tetrazzini. The recipe is broken down into simple steps to ensure success even if it's your first time cooking this dish.

How to Cook Chicken Tetrazzini: A Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. Toss with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Next, add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they are tender and slightly golden, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Make the Cream Sauce

Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables and stir to coat everything evenly. Cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste. Slowly pour in the chicken broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Add the white wine if you're using it and allow the sauce to simmer and thicken, about 3-5 minutes. Stir in the heavy cream (or half-and-half) and nutmeg. Continue to cook until the sauce is creamy and smooth. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper.

Step 4: Combine the Ingredients

Add the shredded chicken to the skillet and stir to combine it with the sauce. Then, add the cooked pasta and toss everything together until well coated with the creamy sauce. Stir in 1 cup of Parmesan cheese until melted and fully incorporated.

Step 5: Transfer to a Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly in the dish. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top for a crispy finish.

Step 6: Bake the Tetrazzini

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Pasta: Make sure to cook your pasta al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
• Not Thickening the Sauce Properly: Be sure to cook the flour thoroughly when making the sauce to avoid a raw flour taste and ensure the sauce thickens.
• Skipping the Breadcrumbs: The breadcrumb topping adds a satisfying crunch, so don’t skip it!
• Using Too Much Pasta: Stick to the recommended amount of pasta. Too much can overwhelm the sauce, leading to a dry dish.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Once your Chicken Tetrazzini is baked to perfection, it's time to serve it up! Here are some tips to make your dish look as great as it tastes.

How to Serve Chicken Tetrazzini

• Serve hot, directly from the oven. Chicken Tetrazzini pairs well with a fresh green salad or garlic bread.
• For portion control, cut the Tetrazzini into squares or spoon it onto plates.
• Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for a finishing touch of flavor and color.

Presentation Ideas for Chicken Tetrazzini

• Family Style: Serve the Chicken Tetrazzini directly from the baking dish on the dining table for a cozy, communal feel.
• Individual Servings: For a more formal presentation, serve individual portions on plates with a side salad or roasted vegetables.
• Elegant Garnish: Top with fresh herbs like parsley or basil and a drizzle of olive oil for a sophisticated look.

Chicken Tetrazzini Recipe Tips

• Make Ahead: You can prepare Chicken Tetrazzini up to 24 hours in advance. Simply cover the dish and refrigerate before baking. When you're ready, bake it straight from the fridge but add an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.
• Freeze It: Chicken Tetrazzini freezes well. Prepare the dish up until the baking step, then cover and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.
• Leftover Chicken: This recipe is perfect for using up leftover rotisserie chicken or turkey from holiday dinners.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make Chicken Tetrazzini ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare Chicken Tetrazzini ahead of time. Assemble the dish, cover it with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

2. Can I freeze Chicken Tetrazzini? Absolutely! Freeze it before baking, then thaw overnight in the fridge and bake when ready. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.

3. What can I use instead of mushrooms? If you're not a fan of mushrooms, you can substitute them with other vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini.

4. Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes, while spaghetti is traditional, you can use any pasta you like, such as penne, fettuccine, or egg noodles.

5. What if I don't have Parmesan cheese? You can substitute Parmesan with Pecorino Romano or even a mild cheddar for a different flavor profile.

Conclusion

Chicken Tetrazzini is a comforting, versatile, and delicious dish that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you're making it for a busy weeknight meal or preparing it for a special family gathering, this recipe is sure to please. With creamy sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta, you can't go wrong. Don’t forget to experiment with variations to suit your personal preferences! Try this easy Chicken Tetrazzini recipe today, and enjoy a hearty, crowd-pleasing dish that's sure to become a family favorite.

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